The 14th edition of Indian Premier League (IPL) finally came to an end with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) clinching the title by beating Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the final on Friday (October 15).
CSK defeated KKR by 27 runs at Dubai International Cricket Stadium to secure the IPL 2021 trophy. By virtue of this triumph, Chennai also became the second IPL franchise after Mumbai Indians (5) to win the cash-rich tournament four times.
As expected, the CSK camp was pretty thrilled after the historic accomplishment. All-rounder Dwayne Bravo said they owed the title to CSK fans and franchise after the disappointing last season.
"It's about the belief in the squad from management, owners. After last season, I was really disappointed. We owed it to the franchise, the fans to come up with a better performance. I don't get nervous (coming into a final)," Bravo said after the match.
"I have had good performance in different phases of the tournament. Faf and Ruturaj were standout (performers) for us. To have these two guys scoring over 500 runs together. Experience beats youth any day," he added.
Moeen Ali, who became the first England player to win the IPL title, played a valuable knock of 37* in the final and he expressed his gratitude for not being dropped by the team management after a few indifferent games.
"I can't describe how I'm feeling. To do it with this franchise is great. I could've been dropped a couple of games ago. It's such a grounded and humble team," said Moeen.
Ravindra Jadeja, on his part, said: "That catch of Venkatesh Iyer changed it for us. Mr DJ Bravo is going to entertain us all night. It's time for him to change his name from 'Champion' to 'Sir Champion'."
Robin Uthappa, who impressed one and all with his dazzling batting display in Qualifier 1 and the final, also spoke about how CSK made players feel secure.
"I've voiced over and over again that in this team, there's secure atmosphere, lot of communication between players and support staff. I believe its the players who aren't playing in the XI that make the atmosphere within the group."
Australia pacer Josh Hazlewood, who returned with impressive figures of 2/29 in the final, credited Bravo for getting into the T20 bowling groove.
"It's fantastic. Full credit to the guys, who have been on top. It's exciting. We've got a such a senior team, and having DJ (Bravo) has been really helpful.
"A bit of downtime, and I'm straight for the World Cup. Perfect preparation really, and I am looking forward to it."
(With PTI inputs)
